How to set up Windows Hello

Configure biometric authentication or PIN sign-in on Windows 11 to secure your device and streamline the login process.

1. Open Windows Sign-in options. Click the Start button and select Settings. Navigate to Accounts in the left sidebar, then click on Sign-in options to view your available authentication methods.
2. Create a Windows Hello PIN. Select PIN (Windows Hello) from the list. Click the Set up button and enter your current user account password to verify your identity.
3. Define PIN requirements. Enter a new PIN in the box, then re-enter it in the confirmation box. Enable the Include letters and symbols checkbox if you require a more complex, non-numeric password.
4. Configure Facial Recognition or Fingerprint. Return to the Sign-in options menu. Select Facial recognition (Windows Hello) or Fingerprint recognition (Windows Hello) based on your hardware capabilities.
5. Complete biometric registration. Click the Set up button. Follow the on-screen instructions to scan your face or fingerprint, ensuring your sensor remains clean and your face is properly positioned within the camera frame.
6. Test the new authentication method. Press Win + L to lock your computer. Verify that the login screen prompts for your biometric input or PIN, confirming the setup is successful.